NEW YORK, Dec. 14 /Christian Newswire/ -- New York gives permission to the Christian Defense Coalition to display a small nativity scene Saturday, December 15 from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M.

The location of the display will be on Broadway and 44th Street right below MTV.

The Nativity Scene is part of "The Nativity Project," which is nationwide campaign that encourages citizens to set up Nativity Displays outside of public buildings, city halls, state capitols and in well traveled public places.

The Christian Defense Coalition will hold a news conference to discuss this national campaign in front of the Nativity Scene at 12:00 noon.

Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney, Director of the Christian Defense Coalition, comments, "The Nativity Project offers an opportunity for people of faith to enter the public square with the glorious news of Christmas. And this is, the Christ-child has provided 'Peace on earth and goodwill toward man.'

"Sadly, we are seeing an erosion and crushing of religious freedoms across America. This is especially true during the Christmas season where there is an open hostility toward public expressions of faith. We must constantly remind our public officials that the Constitution promises freedom 'of' religion not freedom 'from' religion.

"It is essential that the faith community not be intimidated into surrendering their God give First Amendment freedoms which offers to all Americans the right to publicly worship God free from government interference or harassment. That is why it is so important for this Nativity Scene to be in Times Square."

For more information or interviews contact:Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney at 202.547.1735 Cell: 540.538.4741